ONE of Perth’s most promising young culinary talents has served up a runners-up place in a top national award.

Paul Barrance (22), who is a junior sous chef at Glasgow Road’s Lovat Hotel, was listed among the elite in the ‘Adult Apprentice of the Year’ category in the annual Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards.

At a glittering awards ceremony in Glasgow, a delighted Paul said he was “overwhelmed” to be named second best adult apprentice in Scotland.

“It’s been really hard work but I’m absolutely delighted to have my efforts and skills rewarded in this way,” he said.

“Apprenticeships are so important – without them I wouldn’t be doing what I am today.”

Originally from Amulree and now living in Methven, Paul developed an early interest in cooking and won a place on a full-time programme at Perth College, where he has studied for his Professional Cookery Modern Apprentice qualifications.

His unique skills caught the attention of Symphony Hotels and, while still studying, he was offered a job at their Lovat Hotel.

And he has proved an invaluable and innovative contributor in a range of cooking and kitchen management skills.

Symphony director Mike Sheffield said he was extremely pleased to see Paul achieve recognition for his efforts.

“To be shortlisted in that category is brilliant – to be runner-up in the whole country is absolutely fantastic,” he declared.

“We’re great supporters of apprenticeship schemes and are proud to be playing a part in what we’re sure will be a very successful career for this young man.”

Paul cites top chefs such as Rick Stein, Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal as his inspirations and hopes to develop more skills in fine dining and food science as the next steps in his career ladder.

“Being a chef is not an easy career option but it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do since I was 15,” he revealed.

“I’m happy to put in the hours in a bid to achieve my goal of owning my own restaurant one day and rewards like this are a real boost.”